When Kim Potter and Bob Miller gaze out the windows of their San Francisco home, they see a spectacular cityscape—and when they peer down into their own backyard, they're treated to an equally beautiful scene. Once a weed-filled plot, the garden is as striking to look at as it is to be in, thanks to a close collaboration with garden designer Beth Mullins, owner of Growsgreen Landscape Design (a member of the Remodelista + Gardenista Architect/Designer Directory).

I've seen many of Mullins' gardens, and she really has a knack for transforming small spaces, whether the end goal is a place to lounge, entertain, or wander. For Potter and Miller, she created seating areas, a low-maintenance design, and a plan with drought-tolerant plants that looks good all year.

Above: The clients wanted a clean, architectural style, and Beth's strong graphic design stands out when viewed from the home's main floor. Buff-colored gravel adds warmth and is permeable; excess water and rainfall stay on the property.

Above: Bob Miller, who welds as a hobby, made metal raised beds to contain plants. The couple found a matching triangular planter at a local warehouse sale. Sculptural and spiky plants, including many succulents and grasses, fill the beds and soften the garden's angles.

Above: A patio at the rear of the garden is designed for gatherings. The couple loves Midcentury modern design; they found Bertoia chairs and the white chaise in the distance on eBay.

Above: Mullins designed planting holes in the concrete steps and filled them with black mondo grass to add whimsy to the paving.

Above: Bamboo fencing covers the stairwell as well as the fence on two sides of the yard.